Table of Contents
POCSO Act + fast-track special courts — process (2026 guide)
Quick answer: POCSO Act 2012 protects children from sexual offences. Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) handle POCSO + rape cases — statutory 1-year disposal under Cr PC §439A. 1,000+ FTSCs across India.
Key facts
- POCSO Act 2012 — comprehensive framework
- FTSCs designated since 2018
- Statutory 1-year disposal under CrPC §439A
- Child-friendly procedures: in-camera, victim shielded
- POCSO e-Box for online complaints (NCPCR)
- RTI to court for case status + delays
Step-by-step
- FIR at any police station — Mandatory under POCSO §19.
- Special Juvenile Police Unit handles — Trained staff.
- Medical examination + statement — Forensic + judicial magistrate.
- Charge-sheet within 60-90 days — Statutory.
- Trial in FTSC — 1-year disposal target.
- Compensation under POCSO Rules — Free legal aid.
Common issues
- FIR refused — file under §154(3) to SP. Mandatory.
- Trial delayed > 12 months — RTI for cause + remedy.
- Witness intimidation — apply for witness protection.
- Compensation delayed — RTI to State Legal Services Authority.
If stuck — file an RTI
Court records are split: judicial records (case file, orders) follow CPC rules + court counter; administrative records (vacancy, infrastructure, listing logic, judges' assets) are disclosable via RTI to the court PIO.
1. Status of my case no. _____ as on date. 2. Reasons for delay / non-listing in past 30 days. 3. Number of similar cases pending + disposed in past 12 months. 4. Procedure to seek certified copy / file inspection. 5. Name + designation of court PIO + appellate authority.
Auto-fill the PIO + your case: Open the AI RTI Drafter →
Frequently asked questions
Free?
Yes — free legal aid via DLSA. Free medical exam.
Confidentiality?
Yes — child's identity protected by law.
Compensation?
Yes — under POCSO Rules + State Victim Compensation Scheme.
1-year disposal really?
Statutory. RTI if exceeded.
Summary + next step
Bottom line: POCSO Act 2012 protects children from sexual offences. Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) handle POCSO + rape cases — statutory 1-year disposal under Cr PC §439A. 1,000+ FTSCs across India.
- AI RTI Drafter: Auto-fill PIO + your case
- Browse all eCourts guides: eCourts index
- Helplines + grievance: 32 helplines
Related
Last reviewed: 26 April 2026.

